CDA Subject Areas Explained for Early Childhood Educators in Minnesota - post

The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is a nationally recognized credential that shows an #early-childhood- #educator has the knowledge and skills needed to support young children’s growth and learning. In Minnesota, earning a CDA can help educators meet professional development goals, advance their careers, and strengthen the quality of care provided in child care programs.

Understanding the CDA Subject Areas is an important step in the CDA journey. These subject areas guide the required training and help educators connect theory to daily practice. This article explains each CDA subject area in clear, simple #language and highlights how they support #early-childhood-educators working in Minnesota.

What Is the CDA Credential?

The CDA credential is awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. To earn it, educators must complete several steps, including:

• 120 hours of formal training across eight CDA subject areas

• 480 hours of professional experience working with young children

• Creation of a professional portfolio

• A verification visit and final assessment

Many early childhood professionals in Minnesota choose online CDA training because it allows them to learn at their own pace while continuing to work.

Why the CDA Is Important in Minnesota

Minnesota values high-quality early childhood education. CDA training supports:

• Professional development for licensed child care providers

• Career advancement for assistant #teachers-and lead teachers

• Improved classroom practices aligned with best practices and state standards

• Greater confidence when working with children and families

The CDA subject areas focus on both child development and professionalism, making them relevant for educators in centers, family child care #homes, and #early-learning programs throughout Minnesota.

Overview of the 8 CDA Subject Areas

The CDA credential is built around eight subject areas, also called CDA competency standards. Each area focuses on a different part of an educator’s role. Together, they create a strong foundation for working with young children.

1. Planning a Safe and Healthy Learning Environment

This subject area focuses on keeping children safe while supporting exploration and learning.

Educators learn how to:

• Maintain clean, #healthy indoor and #outdoor spaces

• Prevent injuries and reduce hazards

• Follow proper hygiene, sanitation, and supervision practices

A #safe-environment helps children feel secure and ready to learn, which is essential in any Minnesota early childhood setting.

2. Advancing Children’s Physical and Intellectual Development

This subject area supports children’s thinking and physical growth.

Training includes:

• Supporting gross and fine motor skills

• Encouraging early language, literacy, and math skills

• Using play-based activities to support curiosity and problem-solving

Educators learn how to plan #developmentally-appropriate activities that help children grow in all learning areas.

3. Supporting Children’s Social and Emotional Development

Social and emotional skills are critical for young children’s success.

This subject area teaches educators how to:

• Support positive self-esteem

• Help children manage emotions

• Encourage cooperation and positive peer relationships

In Minnesota’s diverse early childhood settings, these skills help create welcoming, inclusive classrooms where children feel valued and understood.

4. Building Productive Relationships with Families

Families play a vital role in children’s development. This subject area focuses on partnership and communication.

Educators learn to:

• Communicate respectfully with families

• Share information about children’s progress

• Respect cultural backgrounds and family values

Strong family relationships improve trust and support children’s learning both at home and in care.

5. Managing an Effective Program Operation

Early childhood educators are often responsible for more than teaching.

This subject area includes:

• Planning daily schedules and routines

• Keeping accurate records and documentation

• Understanding policies, procedures, and community resources

These skills help educators contribute to smooth program operations and professional child care environments.

6. Maintaining a Commitment to Professionalism

Professionalism is an important part of working in early childhood education.

This subject area emphasizes:

• Ethical behavior and professional standards

• Ongoing professional development

• Reflecting on personal teaching practices

Minnesota educators benefit from lifelong learning and continued growth in the field.

7. Observing and Recording Children’s Behavior

Observation is a key teaching tool.

Educators learn how to:

• Observe children objectively

• Record developmental progress

• Use observations to guide lesson planning

This subject area helps educators meet children where they are and support individual growth.

8. Understanding the Principles of Child Development and Learning

This subject area provides the foundation for all the others.

Training includes:

• Child development theories

• Developmental milestones from birth through early childhood

• Understanding how children learn through play and interaction

A strong understanding of child development helps educators make informed decisions every day.

CDA Training Available from ChildCareEd

ChildCareEd offers online CDA training that covers all eight CDA subject areas. These courses are self-paced, easy to access, and designed for busy early childhood professionals, including those working in Minnesota.

👉 CDA Credential Training from ChildCareEd:
CDA Trainings approved in Minnesota 

Helpful CDA Resources from ChildCareEd

ChildCareEd also provides helpful resources to guide educators through the CDA process.

👉 CDA Resource Guide:

Related ChildCareEd Article

For more information about CDA subject area training, check out this helpful article:

👉 ChildCareEd Article on CDA Subject Area Training:

Connect with ChildCareEd on Social Media

Stay connected for training updates, tips, and professional inspiration.

👉 Follow ChildCareEd on Instagram

Conclusion

The CDA subject areas provide a clear roadmap for professional growth in early childhood education. For educators in Minnesota, understanding these subject areas helps improve classroom practices, strengthen relationships with families, and support children’s development in meaningful ways.

By completing CDA training and using trusted resources like those from ChildCareEd, #early-childhood-educators can build confidence, meet professional goals, and make a lasting impact on the children they serve.